South African Occupational Therapists are key professionals in delivering work practise services, essentially playing a vital role in the assessment of a patient’s capacity to return to work. This article reports on the Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) process followed by Occupational Therapists working in South Africa.

South Africa’s first democratic Constitution in 1996 introduced positive change for people with disabilities. Furthermore, changes in legislation gave guidelines to employers regarding the entire recruitment package for employees who were or became ill. Occupational Therapists were integral to the re-integration process.  

The aim of this article is to provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the FCE and prove the invaluable role of the Occupational Therapist.

A survey was conducted in 2004/5 with 29 Occupational Therapists. This identified specialism in the field, a wide range of services available and a high demand for therapists. The article gives a very comprehensive explanation of the FCE process, including the referral, initial interview, assessment of ADL’s, evaluation, and closure.

The article concludes that although the process is time consuming it is essential. Challenges can be faced with involvement from family members, other legal professionals, and union members. However, despite these challenges conducting the FCE promotes positive employment opportunities for people with disabilities.